City manager ‘far exceeds expectations’

Just over a year in what was once a hot seat of contention, Charlevoix City Manager Rob Straebel has kept his cool.

And that even temper and yearning for openness with city officials and citizenry alike earned Straebel the highest of marks in his first annual performance evaluation.

“I think he is an unusual combination of a people person and the knowledge of all the inner workings of the city manager’s office,” said Charlevoix Mayor Norman Carlson Jr. “He’s done a great job of letting department managers do their jobs (and) he’s been really good for council to work with—he keeps us informed.”

Straebel said there were no surprises during the process wherein he was evaluated in staff effectiveness, policy facilitation, service delivery management, democratic responsiveness, organizational planning/management, communication and integrity.

“I continue to be thankful for all the support the city council and community has given me,” he said.

Straebel hopes to spend more time getting out in the field and meeting with city employees on the job.

“We’ve also started to broach the idea with Charlevoix Township regarding fire consolidation,” he said. “So, at least, we can move on with a feasibility survey.”

Straebel added, “And, another important thing to bring forward is a balanced budget this year. We have a fair amount of deficit spending, and one of the most important things we can do is to cut expenses and increase revenue to bring about a balanced budget.”

Carlson feels Straebel and his wife are a perfect fit for Charlevoix, and appreciates seeing Straebel at so many local events.

“The transition has been so smooth,” Carlson said. “I look forward to extending a contract with him and having him lead Charlevoix for more than just the three years that he was hired for.”

The minutes of Straebel’s evaluation are available at Charlevoix City Hall, 210 State St.